Baltra Island, also known as South Seymour, is the gateway through which most people enter and depart the Galapagos Island. Upon arrival and once through immigrations procedures, visitors are transferred directly to a nearby dock to join the ship by Zodiac.
The runway was first constructed here during World War II when the island was used as a US Army Air Base. Located near the geographic center of the Galapagos, the island itself is small, flat and arid.

Daphne Major is a volcanic tuff crater island, located to the north of Santa Cruz Island not far from Baltra International Airport. Circumnavigating the island by ship will reveal the rocky outcropping from all angles as it rises approximately 120 meters (390 feet) above sea level. Usually only scientists are allowed to land on Daphne, so it will be a special event to come in close with the ship and watch for Nazca and Blue-footed Boobies, frigatebirds, Red-billed Tropicbirds, Brown Noddies, Brown Pelicans, and Swallow-tailed Gulls riding the sea breezes swirling around this rugged landmass.

Bahia Darwin, Genovesa

Ecuador

Domingo 05 mai

MaisFechar

At Genovesa Island the ship tucks into Darwin Bay, an ancient volcanic crater now flooded by the sea. Zodiacs land on a picturesque sandy beach where Galapagos sea lions often rest on the fine, white sand. Explorations along the shore may reveal marine iguanas looking like prehistoric dinosaurs in miniature. By heading inland a short distance visitors could encounter seabirds of all shapes and sizes nesting in the vegetation. Scores of immature Red-footed Boobies perch on branches within an arm’s reach of the path.

El Barranco, Genovesa

Ecuador

Domingo 05 mai

MaisFechar

From Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island explorers can access an area known as El Barranco or the “Prince Philip’s Steps”. A brief scramble up the stone steps brings you to the plateau of the island. From here, on flat ground, a small trail wanders past Red-footed Boobies, perching frigate birds, Galapagos Mockingbirds, Nazca Boobies, and Galapagos finches. The highlight however, is arriving on the windward side of the island to see hundreds of Wedge-Rumped Storm Petrels flying around in a frenzy of activity above the lava field where they nest.

Seymour Norte

Ecuador

Segunda-feira 06 mai

MaisFechar

The landing at North Seymour Island is onto black lava rock. After a short climb, visitors arrive on the island’s flat plateau where a number of sea lions nurse pups and frigatebirds nest. The island is dry, and so the predominant tree is the prickly pear cactus favored by the yellow Conolophus land iguanas that live here in number. The undulating terrain is littered with red-brown volcanic boulders and large male Magnificent Frigatebirds can be seen inflating their vivid red gular sacs in hopes of impressing females flying overhead.

Bahia Sullivan, Santiago

Ecuador

Segunda-feira 06 mai

MaisFechar

The lava fields of Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island will inevitably remind visitors of the surface of the moon. As brilliant red Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttle along the black volcanic shores, learn about the formation of the islands through geological forces from your guides. The lava flows here are just over one hundred years old and date back to 1897. The lava took on a rope-like appearance and geologists have adopted a Hawaiian word, pahoehoe, as the technical name for this kind of volcanic rock.

Rábida

Ecuador

Terça-feira 07 mai

MaisFechar

Rabida Island has received accolades for being one of the most exotic spots on earth and while it is small in size, the island is dramatic in scale. Rugged red cliffs rise from the sea and Zodiacs land onto a beach of dark red sand colored by iron ore. Ghost crabs and Galapagos sea lion pups often rest on the russet sands. Further inland, the rusty sand gives way to shrubby coastal vegetation dominated by prickly-pear cactus. Common Cactus Finches feed on the yellow flowers while Darwin finches and lava lizards skitter across the path in search of food.

El Eden, Santa Cruz

Ecuador

Terça-feira 07 mai

MaisFechar

Just off Santa Cruz, Eden Islet offers up a thick coastal mangrove forest growing on black volcanic boulders peppered with tall prickly pear cactus. Eden is a small, eroded tuff cone from an ancient volcano, and is an excellent example of the unique geology of the Galápagos. The shallow waters around the island are ideal for spotting Pacific green sea turtles, reef sharks, eagle rays, sea lions, marine iguanas and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

Galapaguera Cerro Colorado,San Cristobal

Ecuador

Quarta-feira 08 mai

MaisFechar

Giant tortoises are emblematic of the Galapagos Islands. To experience these ancient animals firsthand, the Silver Galapagos anchors off San Cristobal Island and Zodiacs take all ashore to the pretty little town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. From here we set out by bus for the Galapaguera Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve in the highlands of the island. The trails of the reserve lead to encounters with large, lumbering adult tortoises as well as small juveniles that could fit in the palm of a person’s hand.

Punta Pitt, San Cristobal

Ecuador

Quarta-feira 08 mai

MaisFechar

On the northern shore of San Cristobal Island is a peninsula known as Punta Pitt. The point is made up of two coalesced volcanoes and is much younger than the rest of the island. Some of the lava flows are only a few centuries old. From a sandy beach Zodiac landing leads a long walk following a twisting red gravel path that runs through black basalt lava rocks, and between craggy peaks. The vegetation along the way is low and scrubby, and attractive blue-gray lichen grows on the rocks.

Gardner Bay, Española

Ecuador

Quinta-feira 09 mai

MaisFechar

Isla Champion is a small islet off Floreana Island’s northeast coast. To cruise by it reveals a bare, rocky island without much allure, but to enter the infinitely blue waters around this small landmass is to discover a spectacular underwater realm. The visibility is generally impressive and thanks to this water clarity snorkelers often spot reef sharks patrolling the reef wall, cruising Pacific green turtles, and playful Galapagos sea lions. Encounters in the blue with thousands of small silver minnows, large tuna fish, or oceanic sunfish are not unheard of either.

Punta Suarez, Espanola

Ecuador

Quinta-feira 09 mai

MaisFechar

Punta Suárez lies at the western point of Española, the oldest island in the Galápagos. Sheer cliffs provide superb thermals for seabirds and you may spot Swallow-tailed Gulls, Nazca Boobies and Blue-footed Boobies on the breeze. The largest seabird to nest in the Galapagos Islands is the Waved Albatross. These ocean wanderers can be seen seasonally here from April through December, when pairs reunite on Española, going through an elaborate pair-bonding display. Mockingbirds, doves, and occasional Galápagos Hawks can also be seen on the point, along with sea lions and colorful marine iguanas.

Estacion Darwin & Puerto Ayora,Santa Cruz

Ecuador

Sexta-feira 10 mai

MaisFechar

Silver Galapagos will anchor in front of Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, where the prestigious Charles Darwin Research Station is located. The station also houses the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center for giant tortoises and land iguanas where guides interpret the center’s captive breeding and reintroduction programs. In addition to these star species, throughout the station there are huge prickly pear cactus trees being fed upon by the pretty Galapagos Cactus Finch. To round out the stay in Puerto Ayora, enjoy free time in town where local artists have created charming art galleries and corner cafés.

Plazas Sur

Ecuador

Sexta-feira 10 mai

MaisFechar

South Plaza is a serene island located close to the eastern coast of Santa Cruz. This small island is sprinkled with giant prickly pear cactus, carpeted with a reddish mat of ground-cover succulents, and is home to a large nesting colony of Swallow-tailed Gulls, along with marine iguanas and Galápagos sea lions. Seabirds crowd the island’s shores including Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, Brown Pelicans, and frigatebirds. However, the birds, seals and marine iguanas share the spotlight with brilliant yellow land iguanas of the island.

San Cristobal

Ecuador

Sábado 11 mai

MaisFechar

Like so many of the islands in the Galapagos, San Cristobal is formed by dormant volcanoes. It lies to the east of the archipelago and is one of the oldest islands in the group. Approximately 6,000 people live on the island, making their living from tourism, fishing, in government offices, or off the rich volcanic soils with some limited farming existing in the highlands. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the southwestern tip of the island is the capital city of the Galapagos Islands. A statue of Charles Darwin graces the harbor, marking one of the first places he likely stepped ashore in the 1830s.

Baltra, Galapagos

5NT PRE-CRUISE: MACHU PICCHU GRANDE EXPLORER

Indulge your senses with the scenic splendour and unique history of Peru. Board the Vistadome train for a picturesque train-ride to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, explore the 'Lost City of the Incas'.

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Indulge your senses with the scenic splendour and unique history of Peru. Board the Vistadome train for a picturesque train-ride to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, explore the 'Lost City of the Incas'. Your overnight stay at the famed Sanctuary Lodge allows you to spend additional time at the historic site with fewer tourists. Return to Cuzco aboard the legendary Hiram Bingham train.

Please note: Participants in this program should schedule their arrival flight into Lima, Peru.

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding Peruvian and Ecuadorian visas. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain appropriate visa documents prior to cruising.

DAY 1 - LIMA

Upon arrival in Lima, you are met and transferred from the airport to the beautiful Miraflores Park Hotel. The majority of international flights arrive into Lima in the evening. You will likely arrive at the hotel quite late.

Overnight at the Miraflores Park Hotel - Lima, Peru

DAY 2 - LIMA/CUZCO

Breakfast is served at the hotel this morning. Then return to the airport for the short 90-minute flight to Cuzco. Leaving the airport, stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Begin this afternoon on a city tour of Cuzco and the main sights including the Korikancha Temple, a Dominican church and convent that was built on the foundations of the Korikancha, or palace of gold, the principal Inca religious building, dedicated to the worship of the sun. Continue to the beautiful square surrounded by stone arches and a spectacular arcade constructed during colonial times. Visit the Cathedral, whose construction was begun in 1560 and was consecrated in 1669. This incredible structure exhibits Gothic, Mannerist-Renaissance and Baroque influences. At the end of your tour, check in and take a few moments to freshen up before heading to a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight at the Monasterio Hotel - Cuzco, Peru

DAY 3 -CUZCO / MACHU PICCHU

You may wish to have a light breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the Aguas Calientes Station where you board the Hiram Bingham. Your rail journey celebrates the spirit of expedition and perseverance that is the hallmark of the railways of Peru, taking its name from the explorer Hiram Bingham who discovered the 'Lost City of the Incas'. A delicious brunch is served during your journey.

Upon arrival at the site, commence a guided tour of the marvellous Citadel, then take a stroll through this impressive archaeological site on your own. Explore the famous "Lost City of the Incas" and feel its pulse while visualizing the lives of the priests, craftsmen, and servants who lived in this seemingly incredible site. Excavations have only added to the mystery, revealing the skeletons of 173 people along with artifacts and woolen clothing, though no gold.

Afterward, relax with afternoon tea at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located within the very grounds of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary citadel. Dinner is served at the Lodge.

Overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

DAY 4 - MACHU PICCHU / CUZCO

After an early-morning breakfast at the lodge, depart for an opportunity to witness an incomparable sight (weather permitting); the sun rising over Machu Picchu. Due to the proximity of the hotel to the site, overnight guests have time in the morning to enjoy the citadel with very few other visitors around.

Spend ample time at the ruins this morning exploring on your own. An early lunch is served at the lodge. Then it's time to board the Vistadome train for the return to Cuzco. Upon arrival, return to the Hotel Monasterio. The balance of the evening is at your leisure.

Overnight at the Monasterio Hotel - Cuzco, Peru

DAY 5 - CUZCO / QUITO

Depart for the airport very early this morning for the flights to Quito. The Quito-based Silversea representative meets your flight and assist you with the transfer into the city. Along the way you will have a panoramic tour of the capital. The balance of the day is at your leisure. Dinner this evening is provided in the hotel.

Overnight at the JW Marriott - Quito, Ecuador

DAY 6 - GALÁPAGOS

After breakfast at the hotel, return to the airport for the onward flight to the Galápagos. Bon voyage!

Program Inclusions:

One-night stay in an Ocean View Jr. Suite at the Miraflores Park Hotel

One-night stay in a Standard Room at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge Hotel

According to Peruvian law, only 8 kg of hand luggage will be allowed on the trains travelling between Cuzco and Machu Picchu (Vistadome, Hiram Bingham, etc.),

1 personal item per person (such as a purse)

1 carry-on per person conforming to the following requirements:

· Maximum 8kg/17.5lbs

· Maximum 157cm/62 inches combined height, length, width

Luggage is restricted to a maximum of 44 pounds (20 kilograms) for domestic flights in Peru. Weight restrictions are very strict on domestic Peruvian flights; at the time of printing, overweight charges are US $35.40 for overweight luggage/ $70.80 per extra piece of luggage. Guests are responsible for any charges imposed by the airlines for overweight luggage. Please pack a small overnight bag (8kg max) to travel to Machu Picchu on Day 2. The remainder of your luggage will be held at the hotel in Cuzco.

Visa Information:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding Peruvian and Ecuadorian visas. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain appropriate visa documents prior to cruising.

Accessibility:

The sights visited on this program are not well-equipped for mobility-impaired guests; therefore, this tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair.

Vaccinations:

Consult your physician for information regarding vaccinations or medications that may be appropriate for your state of health.

Please note: Gratuities to guides/drivers, meals and alcoholic drinks other than those noted in itinerary, and other personal expenses are not included in the price of this tour. Silversea Air Programme guests may be provided flights on LAN Peru in order to participate in this program. Flights are subject to availability, and any changes to the carrier will affect the selling price of the program.

All Land Adventures require a minimum number of participants in order to operate as described. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Silversea's published cruise cancellation policy will remain in effect. All Land Adventure fares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason, within 90 days of sailing. This description is a general overview of this programme. Our local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if local situations, including holidays and weather, require. The programme described in this brochure is provided by independent contractors. Silversea acts solely as ticketing agent. Silversea shall have no obligation or liability of any kind to guests for the business practices, acts or omissions in connection with or arising out of arrangements with independent contractors, including but not limited to airline carriers, ground-tour operators, and hotels since they are neither agents for nor employees of Silversea Cruises. Silversea's liability does not extend beyond the vessel.

wheelchair.

Vaccinations:

Consult your physician for information regarding vaccinations or medications that may be appropriate for your state of health.

Please note: Gratuities to guides/drivers, meals and alcoholic drinks other than those noted in itinerary, and other personal expenses are not included in the price of this tour. Silversea Air Programme guests may be provided flights on LAN Peru in order to participate in this program. Flights are subject to availability, and any changes to the carrier will affect the selling price of the program.

All Land Adventures require a minimum number of participants in order to operate as described. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Silversea's published cruise cancellation policy will remain in effect. All Land Adventure fares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason, within 90 days of sailing. This description is a general overview of this programme. Our local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if local situations, including holidays and weather, require. The programme described in this brochure is provided by independent contractors. Silversea acts solely as ticketing agent. Silversea shall have no obligation or liability of any kind to guests for the business practices, acts or omissions in connection with or arising out of arrangements with independent contractors, including but not limited to airline carriers, ground-tour operators, and hotels since they are neither agents for nor employees of Silversea Cruises. Silversea's liability does not extend beyond the vessel.

GALAPAGOS SIMPLY HOTEL

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.

Mais informações Fechar

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.5 and 5-star properties are generally Standard Double or King rooms that provide comfortable accommodations and superior service for those who wish to extend their trip with a cultural or shopping experience in some of the world's most iconic cities.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel brands that we consistently feature include Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Fairmont or the Conrad Group.

San Cristobal

EcuadorSábado 11 mai

Sábado 11 mai

1 Programa em terra
e
1 Hotel

4NT POST-CRUISE MACHU PICCHU GRANDE EXPLORER

PROGRAM IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE Indulge your senses with the scenic splendour and unique history of Peru. Board the legendary 'Hiram Bingham' for a picturesque train-ride to Machu Picchu.

Mais informações Fechar

PROGRAM IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Indulge your senses with the scenic splendour and unique history of Peru. Board the legendary 'Hiram Bingham' for a picturesque train-ride to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, explore the 'Lost City of the Incas'. Your overnight stay at the famed Sanctuary Lodge allows you to spend additional time at the historic site wiewer tourists.

Please note: Participants in this program should schedule their departure flight from Lima, Peru for departure after 10:00PM.

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding Peruvian and Ecuadorian visas. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain appropriate visa documents prior to cruising.

DAY 1 - SAN CRISTOBAL or BALTRA / LIMA

Depending upon your itinerary, you will disembark in either Baltra or San Cristobal and transfer to the airport. Upon arrival in Guyaquil, the local Silversea representative is on hand to meet you and provide the tickets for your onward flight and a boxed lunch. Once in Lima, you are met and transferred from the airport to the beautiful Miraflores Park Hotel.

Overnight at the Miraflores Park Hotel - Lima, Peru

DAY 2 - LIMA / CUZCO

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before returning to the airport for the short flight (90 minutes) to Cuzco. Once there, transfer to the hotel. After a quick stop to freshen up, continue on for lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy some free time this afternoon.

Overnight at the Monasterio Hotel - Cuzco, Peru

DAY 3 - CUZCO / MACHU PICCHU

A light breakfast is recommended at the hotel this morning. Later, transfer to the train station in the Sacred Valley where the Hiram Bingham train awaits. Your rail journey celebrates the spirit of expedition and perseverance that is the hallmark of the railways of Peru, taking its name from the explorer Hiram Bingham who discovered the 'Lost City of the Incas'.

Brunch is served en route. Upon arrival at the site, commence a guided tour of the marvelous Citadel, then take a stroll through this impressive archaeological site on your own. Explore the famous "Lost City of the Incas" and feel its pulse while visualizing the lives of the priests, craftsmen, and servants who lived in this seemingly incredible site. Excavations have only added to the mystery, revealing the skeletons of 173 people along with artifacts and woolen clothing, though no gold.

Afterward, relax with afternoon tea at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located within the very grounds of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary citadel. Dinner is served at the Lodge.

Overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

DAY 4 - MACHU PICCHU / CUZCO

After an early-morning breakfast at the lodge, depart for an opportunity to witness an incomparable sight (weather permitting); the sun rising over Machu Picchu. Due to the proximity of the hotel to the site, overnight guests have time in the morning to enjoy the citadel with very few other visitors around.

Spend ample time at the ruins this morning exploring on your own. An early lunch is served at the lodge. Then it's time to board the Vistadome train for the return to Cuzco. Upon arrival, return to the Hotel Monasterio. The balance of the day, including dinner, is at your leisure.

Overnight at the Monasterio Hotel - Cuzco, Peru

DAY 5 - CUZCO / LIMA

Breakfast is served at the hotel this morning. Following check-out, begin a city tour of Cuzco and the main sights including the Korikancha Temple, a Dominican church and convent that was built on the foundations of the Korikancha, or palace of gold, the principal Inca religious building, dedicated to the worship of the sun. Continue to the beautiful square surrounded by stone arches and a spectacular arcade constructed during colonial times. Visit the Cathedral, whose construction was begun in 1560 and was consecrated in 1669. This incredible structure exhibits Gothic, Mannerist-Renaissance and Baroque influences.

Your Machu Picchu adventure comes to an end when you arrive at the airport for your homeward-bound flight. Your flight to Lima is scheduled to arrive there at approximately 7:30pm. Please make sure to schedule your onward return flight for departure after 10:00pm.

According to Peruvian law, only the following baggage will be allowed on the trains traveling between Cusco and Machu Picchu (Vistadome, Hiram Bingham, etc.):

1 personal item per person (such as a purse)

1 carry-on per person conforming to the following requirements:

· Maximum 5kg/11lbs

· Maximum 157cm/62 inches combined height, length, width

Luggage is restricted to a maximum of 44 pounds (20 kilograms) for domestic flights in Peru. Weight restrictions are very strict on domestic Peruvian flights; at the time of printing, overweight charges are US $35.40 for overweight luggage/ $70.80 per extra piece of luggage. Guests are responsible for any charges imposed by the airlines for overweight luggage. Please pack a small overnight bag to travel to Machu Picchu on Day 3. The remainder of your luggage will be held at the hotel in Cusco.

Visa Information:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding Peruvian and Ecuadorian visas. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain appropriate visa documents prior to cruising.

Accessibility:

The sights visited on this program are not well-equipped for mobility-impaired guests; therefore, this tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair.

Vaccinations:

Consult your physician for information regarding vaccinations or medications that may be appropriate for your state of health.

Please note: Gratuities to guides/drivers, meals and alcoholic drinks other than those noted in itinerary, and other personal expenses are not included in the price of this tour. Silversea Air Programme guests may be provided flights on LAN Peru in order to participate in this program. Flights are subject to availability, and any changes to the carrier will affect the selling price of the program.

All Land Adventures require a minimum number of participants in order to operate as described. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Silversea's published cruise cancellation policy will remain in effect. All Land Adventure fares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason, within 90 days of sailing. This description is a general overview of this programme. Our local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if local situations, including holidays and weather, require. The programme described in this brochure is provided by independent contractors. Silversea acts solely as ticketing agent. Silversea shall have no obligation or liability of any kind to guests for the business practices, acts or omissions in connection with or arising out of arrangements with independent contractors, including but not limited to airline carriers, ground-tour operators, and hotels since they are neither agents for nor employees of Silversea Cruises. Silversea's liability does not extend beyond the vessel.

GUAYAQUIL SIMPLY HOTEL

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.

Mais informações Fechar

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.5 and 5-star properties are generally Standard Double or King rooms that provide comfortable accommodations and superior service for those who wish to extend their trip with a cultural or shopping experience in some of the world's most iconic cities.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel brands that we consistently feature include Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Fairmont or the Conrad Group.

melhores momentos da viagem

Embark Silver Galapagos and depart on your exciting Silversea North Central Galápagos Expedition. After settling in, attending a mandatory safety drill and setting sail, you will be introduced to your Expedition Team.

Silver Galapagos will then head for Daphne to do a circumnavigation –usually only scientist are allowed to land. From the ship we will watch for Nazca and Blue-footed Boobies, Red-billed Tropicbirds, Brown Noddies and Brown Pelicans, as well as Swallow-tailed Gulls and frigatebirds.

In the evening enjoy the first of many memorable meals in The Restaurant.

Day 2 — Bahía Darwin, Genovesa Island

El Barranco, Prince Philip Steps, Genovesa Island

Genovesa is dubbed “Bird Island”, a name it lives up to in a spectacular way. Huge colonies of seabirds create a bird-watcher’s paradise. Take a walk on the sandy beach of Darwin Bay, home to one of the world’s largest Red-footed Booby nesting colonies. Yellow-crowned Night Herons feed near tidal lagoons, while hundreds of Swallow-tailed Gulls nest in the cliffs. Climb “Prince Philip’s Steps”, a steep path named after the Duke of Edinburgh who visited the island in 1965, and you will be well rewarded with a remarkable spectacle of Nazca Boobies nesting on the ground, Great Frigatebirds with their fiery red sacs, and, if you are lucky, you might even see the elusive Short-eared Owl on a daytime hunt for Storm Petrels, a favourite prey.

After a morning walk, you will have a chance to enjoy the first snorkelling excursion and experience the diverse, underwater wonderland that surrounds the island.

There will also be the opportunity to kayak around Darwin Bay — which is actually a flooded caldera —and admire the island’s craggy landscape.

Day 3 — North Seymour

Sullivan Bay, Santiago

North Seymour is a small up-lifted island close to Baltra filled with a spectacular profusion of wildlife above and below the water’s surface. The Magnificent Frigatebird is an opportunistic breeder and at any month of the year one may see males displaying their bright-red gular pouch to attract females.

Galápagos sea lions snooze in the sand. Blue-footed Boobies perform their courtship dance called “sky-pointing”. Marine iguanas and Galapagos land iguanas patrol the beach, while Brown Pelicans and Brown Noddies look for food in the shallow coastal waters. Walk through this spectacular landscape and afterwards take the opportunity to go snorkelling—perhaps even spotting the impressive whitetip reef shark.

Witness the marks Nature has left on the islands through its geological forces. At Sullivan Bay we will see lava flows dating back to 1897. Here the very high temperature of the molten material, as well as its gas content, had caused the surface to be quite smooth. The appearance this lava has is almost like frail rope and the technical term for it is pahoehoe (a Hawaiian name that suggests the swirls left behind by a paddle (hoe) in the water). Since the lava has not moved equally in all places, the design of the surface texture induces one to see different objects and images in the lava.

Back at the sandy beach you might want to get ready for snorkelling. Apart from rays in the shallows, turtles are quite fond of the beaches and come there to lay their eggs.

Day 4 — Rabida and Eden, Santa Cruz

Rabida is a small picturesque island with red cliffs and maroon-coloured sand. Here one can see Darwin’s finches, lava lizards and Galápagos Mockingbirds. A short but rewarding hike will lead along the cliffs where the red rocks, green Palo Santo trees and the blue turquoise sea create landscapes of stunning contrast. The underwater world teems with colourful tropical species and the vibrant submarine landscape is equally amazing. There will be the opportunity to swim or simply stroll along the beach and admire the sea lions snoozing along the shore. One can also go for a stunning snorkel-excursion with sea lions, reef sharks, marine iguanas, colourful anemones and parrotfish, or kayak along the picturesque Rabida cliffs.

Eden Islet

Silver Galapagos sails to Eden Islet for snorkelling, kayaking and Zodiac rides. Eden is a small, eroded tuff cone and an excellent example of the unique geology of the Galápagos. It is home to Great Blue Herons, sea lions, and Blue-footed Boobies; while the small tidal areas can be a resting place for reef sharks, eagle rays and green turtles. Eden is also an excellent spot for kayaking.

Day 5 — La Galapaguera & Punta Pitt, San Cristóbal

The most emblematic animal in the archipelago is the Galápagos giant tortoise. Over-hunting and competition with introduced animals has left its numbers close to extinction. Nonetheless, since the late 1950s, the work of the Galápagos National Park Service and the scientists of the Charles Darwin Research Station has been bringing those numbers back. See these ancient reptiles and their babies, and learn more about current conservation efforts at Galapaguera Cerro Colorado. Breeding and rearing endemic animals in captivity is part of a much broader conservation programme aimed at restoring and protecting the Galapagos Islands’ natural biodiversity.

San Cristóbal is one of the oldest islands in Galápagos and the well-eroded landscape of Punta Pitt creates a dramatic landscape. Three species of boobies can be found there: Red-footed, Blue-footed and Nazca Booby, as well as both the Great and Magnificent Frigatebird. After a wet landing on an olivine beach where sea lions doze, climb up a ravine to view one of the most scenic panoramas in the archipelago. San Cristóbal or Chatham lava lizards guide the way, while Red-footed Boobies and Nazca Boobies fly overhead.

Day 6 — Bahía Gardner and Punta Suárez, Española

Bahia Gardner promises a chance to swim with sea lions from its gorgeous beach. Relax on the white sands of this idyllic location. Further out one can snorkel with large schools of colourful tropical fish and an occasional manta ray, while whitetip reef sharks may nap on the bottom. Paddling through crystal-clear waters in a kayak, marvelling at the natural wonders, will give another view of the islands’ treasures.

Punta Suárez is at the western point of Española, the oldest island in the Galápagos. Sheer cliffs provide superb thermals for seabirds. Swallow-tailed Gulls, Nazca Boobies and Blue-footed Boobies can easily be seen. The largest seabird to nest in the islands, the Waved Albatross, may be seen seasonally from April through December and has made Española its home. Mockingbirds, doves, and occasional Galápagos Hawks can also be found, as well as sea lions and colourful marine iguanas.

Silver Galapagos will cruise overnight to Santa Cruz, an island in the central part of the archipelago with the largest human population. The headquarters of the Galápagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station are located in the small town of Puerto Ayora.

At the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, young giant tortoises –both dome-shaped and saddle-backed- up to 5 years old are waiting to be returned to their home island. There is also an exhibit on Galápagos land iguanas; their numbers were once diminished due to introduced animals, but they have had a comeback thanks to the efforts of the National Park Service and Research Station.

There will be time to do some sightseeing and shopping in town as well.

South Plaza is a neat little island located close to the eastern coast of Santa Cruz. Its main attraction is a colony of Galápagos land iguanas, but the setting is also a highlight — giant prickly pear cactus, the reddish sesuvium plant, a mat-like ground cover, and a large nesting colony of Swallow-tailed Gulls make this small island an excellent stop. Marine iguanas and Galápagos sea lions are also around.

Day 8 — San Cristobal

Following breakfast, disembark Silver Galapagos for your return flight from San Cristobal Airport.

Expedition highlights and wildlife listed here are possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed. Your Expedition Leader and Captain will work together to ensure opportunities for adventure and exploration are the best possible, taking into account the prevailing weather, wildlife activity and conditions. Expedition Team members scheduled for this voyage are subject to change or cancellation.

GEAR UP

Not sure what to wear while onboard? Visit our shop and gear up. We've got layers to keep you dry and warm, breezy wear to keep you covered and cool, and accessories to keep everything packed up and ready to go. So, no matter the weather, you'll be better prepared for your expedition.

Our Gear Shop has an expert outfitting staff and features all the essentials: